Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cups are a deliciously indulgent treat that combines creamy peanut butter, melty chocolate, and the crunch of chocolate chips. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, these no-bake cups are easy to make and perfect for snacking, gifting, or sharing at gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Required: Quick and hassle-free preparation.
- Classic Flavor Combo: The timeless pairing of chocolate and peanut butter is irresistible.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Perfect for Gifting: These treats are beautiful and easy to package for gifts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Creamy peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips
- Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (for the shell)
- Coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed. Set aside.
- Make the Chocolate Shells:
- Melt the semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
- Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into silicone or paper-lined mini muffin cups, tilting to coat the sides. Reserve some chocolate for the tops. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Roll small balls of the peanut butter mixture and flatten slightly. Place one into each chocolate shell.
- Cover the filling with a layer of the reserved melted chocolate, sealing the top.
- Garnish and Chill:
- Sprinkle with sea salt or additional mini chocolate chips if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the cups from the molds or liners and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Cups: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Crunchy Filling: Use crunchy peanut butter or mix in chopped peanuts.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate and a plant-based butter substitute if needed.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable; serve these treats chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred as natural peanut butter can separate.
How do I make the chocolate shell smoother?
Add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the chocolate while melting for a shinier, smoother finish.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these cups store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them ideal for advance preparation.
What other toppings work well?
Crushed pretzels, shredded coconut, or colored sprinkles are great options.
Can I use white chocolate?
Absolutely! White chocolate adds a different but equally delicious twist.
Are these cups gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the chocolate and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
How do I make them less sweet?
Reduce the powdered sugar slightly or use unsweetened peanut butter.
Can I make these in larger sizes?
Yes, use regular-sized muffin tins and adjust the quantity of ingredients and chilling time accordingly.
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?
Microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, or use a double boiler for more controlled melting.
Do I need special molds for this recipe?
No, silicone or paper-lined mini muffin tins work perfectly.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cups are an easy, no-bake treat that everyone will love. With their creamy, sweet filling and smooth chocolate shell, these cups are perfect for any occasion. Simple to customize and store, they’re a treat you’ll want to make again and again. Try them today and enjoy the ultimate combination of peanut butter and chocolate!
PrintChocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cups
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cups are a perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, melty chocolate, and a surprise crunch of mini chocolate chips. These no-bake treats are easy to make and ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing at parties!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cups 1x
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the peanut butter filling:
- 1/2 cup (120 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (45 g) mini chocolate chips
For the chocolate shell:
- 1 1/2 cups (260 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for a smoother finish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the peanut butter filling
- In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips. Refrigerate the mixture for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly for easier handling.
Step 2: Melt the chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the cups
- Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner. Use the back of a spoon to spread it slightly up the sides.
- Roll the peanut butter filling into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each) and flatten slightly. Place a piece of filling in the center of each chocolate-lined cup.
- Cover the peanut butter filling with another teaspoon of melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully sealed. Gently tap the muffin tin on the counter to smooth the tops.
Step 4: Chill and serve
- Refrigerate the peanut butter cups for 20-30 minutes, or until set.
- Remove the paper liners and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Store the peanut butter cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the cups for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Variations: Use dark or milk chocolate for the shell, or mix in crushed pretzels or nuts for extra texture.